The principal and founder, Maurice Shapero, studied at the Royal College of Art (1993) in London and the Glasgow School of Art (1990). He set up Studio Maurice Shapero​ after many years of designing and overseeing the construction of high profile projects, working for David Chipperfield, Michael Wilford and Stephen Hodder. The practice tends to attract creative clients who have a strong desire to build something exceptional. Maurice's work is published globally by magazines such as The Architect's Journal, Dezeen and Building Design.

There have been some highlights along the way - In 2012 42nd Street Young Persons Centre won Manchester Society of Architects Building of the Year, Manchester Chamber of Commerce Building of The Year and Best Innovative Design at the Northern Design Awards. In 2007 Maurice collaborated with David Adjaye to win a competition for a new build art gallery in North Manchester. Palmiro Restaurant was short listed for the Architects Journal Small Projects Award and was exhibited at the RIBA in London.